A youth leader today paid tribute to tragic teenager Lee Taylor for his work helping other youngsters.

Lee, 19, died on September 1 when the car in which he was a front-seat passenger crashed in Washington.

When he was only six, Lee, of Conyers Avenue, Chester-le-Street, had his first visit to the town's youth club and after that went three to four times every week.

Today part-time youth worker Colin Bryden, who has known Lee most of his life, said: "He used to do the disco and generally help in any way he could; he loved going there and everybody there loved him.

"Nothing was too much for him. When he was 14 he qualified to teach quad-biking to youngsters."

Witnesses to the crash are urged to contact motor patrols south on (0191) 454 7555.

NTwo men have been arrested in connection with the crash and released on bail pending further inquiries.